What Are Madonna's, Russell Brand's, and Jerry Seinfeld's Favorite Books?
What do President Obama, Madonna, and Jerry Seinfeld have in common? First, they are famous. (Duh.) And secondly, yes, they too are all parents. And thirdly…drum roll…they have all written children’s books!
Check out this list of 9 great books written by some of our favorite actors, singers, and politicians. Some are sweet, some are educational, and some are just plain silly, but they all have a little something for everyone.
The Pied Piper of Hamelin by Russell Brand
The newest member of the big-screen-celeb-turned-kids’-book-author, the irreverent comedian Russell Brand uses his voice like no one else can. In his take on The Pied Piper of Hamelin, Brand’s prose will have kids and parents LOL’ing. If you think you know the story of the Pied Piper, I assure you, you don’t know it quite like this!
Of Thee I Sing by Barack Obama
Joining the company of Presidential children’s book authors Theodore Roosevelt and Jimmy Carter, President Barack Obama’s “letter” to his two daughters is an inspiring and beautifully illustrated collection of American heroes that anyone will enjoy, despite political views. From Sitting Bull to Helen Keller to Martin Luther King, Jr, Obama teaches compassion, perseverance and courage through the triumphs of these 13 noteworthy American influencers. (Two important facts to note: One, he wrote this book after he was elected, but before he took office. And two, all proceeds go to a scholarship fund for children of disabled and fallen soldiers.)
Halloween by Jerry Seinfeld
In Halloween, Jerry Seinfeld does what he does best—he takes one topic and dissects it to reveal every last hilarious detail. So on this last day of October every year, we get to do what? Ring the doorbells of strangers and ask for what? Candy? And then dress up in whatever costume we want? Even though it’s centered around this fall holiday, Seinfeld’s book about everyone’s favorite holiday is one that can be enjoyed year round.
Late for School by Steve Martin
Comedians make great children’s book authors, as is proven by this hilariously absurd tale by the beloved Steve Martin. He tells the time-honored story of how difficult it can be to get out of the front door of the house and into the front door of school on time, dressed, and with everything in order. Ready for the best part? Along with the book comes a CD of Martin playing banjo and singing along to the book’s prose. Blue grass + humor = amazing.
Mr. Peabody’s Apples by Madonna
Madonna is no stranger to the rumor mill, so it makes complete sense that when writing a children’s book, she’d be keen on teaching the lesson of how words can hurt. The second in her five-book writing career, Mr. Peabody’s Apples offers universal advice on not jumping to conclusions.
Jag by LeAnn Rimes
There are some lessons that never get tired in children’s books, and country music fave Rimes tackles two important ones in this sweet story: conquering fears and being kind to others. With a sequel to follow, this entertaining story is bound to be a regular at bedtime.
My Mom is a Foreigner, But Not to Me by Julianne Moore
Known for her Freckleface Strawberry series, best-selling children’s book author Julianne Moore isn’t new to this game. In her most recent book, My Mom is a Foreigner, but Not to Me, she tackles the childhood anxiety of feeling different, but from the angle of having a foreign-born parent. Spoken from the point of view of the children, her message that while moms might dress, cook, or speak differently, they are certainly still full of love and fun. Kudos to Moore for giving us a book that lovingly celebrates the diversity, culture, and tradition.
Never Play Music Right Next to the Zoo by John Lithgow
What are two things that nearly all kids adore? Yes, music and animals. In Lithgow’s cleverly rhyming story book, the main character is dragged to a classical concert by his parents, dozes off, and dreams that the stage is taken over by animals. And when a book is about music, it only seems right that it comes with a CD to enjoy. This book is sure to hit the right chord with kids and parents alike.
Presenting…Tallulah by Tori Spelling
Actress, reality star, mother of 4, and daughter of television mogul, Tori Spelling tells the tale of a little girl who is constantly told to stay clean, act prim, and dress the part. This unexpectedly sweet story teaches kids that appearances are not always what they seem.
[Madonna photo above via.]
